2010 Chevy Impala Review
2010 Chevy Impala Review
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Edmunds' Expert Review
by the Edmunds Experts
Pros
- Smooth ride, seating for six passengers with available front bench, big trunk.
Cons
- Rental-fleet styling, cheap-looking interior materials on some models, so-so handling.
What’s new
The performance-oriented SS model has been dropped from the 2010 Chevy Impala's lineup. The only other item of note is that the less expensive 1LT trim level can now be ordered with a new Convenience package that largely takes the place of the now-discontinued 2LT trim.
Edmunds says
A comfortable cabin and a smooth ride make the 2010 Chevrolet Impala an appealing large family sedan, even though its interior materials and handling aren't quite up to best-in-class standards.
Cost to DriveCost to drive estimates for the 2010 Chevrolet Impala LS 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A) and comparison vehicles are based on 15,000 miles per year (with a mix of 55% city and 45% highway driving) and energy estimates of $3.64 per gallon for regular unleaded in Ohio.
Monthly estimates based on costs in Ohio
$198/mo for Impala LS
Impala LS
vs
$224/mo
Avg. Large Car
Vehicle overview
When you reach a certain age, you come to respect any product that's been around as long -- and been through as many changes -- as you have. In the automotive world, the Chevrolet Impala would be a good example -- it's been around in various incarnations since the late 1950s.
Of course, the danger with such longevity in both people and products is that they can fail to keep up with the times. Not in a trendy, chasing-the-latest-fad way, mind you, but in a practical sense that helps them feel fresh and relevant. The full-size 2010 Chevrolet Impala sedan is a prime example of a long-established product that's fallen just a tad behind the curve. It's not that there's anything glaringly wrong with the Impala per se, it's just that there are a number of areas where its rivals have pulled ahead in recent years.
First, let's give credit where credit's due. The Impala, which carries over largely unchanged for the 2010 model year, remains a solid large family sedan. It meets all the basic requirements to compete in this category, including a smooth ride, quiet interior with seating for six, decent crash test ratings and a generously sized trunk.
The problem is that the Impala doesn't really excel in any of these areas. Add the fact that this perennial top-seller remains hamstrung by bland styling, some cheap-looking interior materials and underwhelming powertrains and it risks looking like a four-wheeled fuddy-duddy.
A quick check of the full-size sedan competition illustrates our point. Both the Hyundai Azera and Toyota Avalon offer roomier and more luxurious interiors, while the newly redesigned Ford Taurus represents a storied car that's actually been brought up to date with a modern interior and technology. There are also the rear-wheel-drive Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger models that both have distinctive styling and better handling to recommend them.
And yet, despite all this, we can't argue with the Chevy Impala's largely successful five-decade track record. It might be behind the curve, but apparently the Impala's combination of familiarity and midpack performance keep it just competitive enough to attract the attention of an awful lot of buyers.
Performance & mpg
The 2010 Chevrolet Impala is offered with your choice of two different powertrains. LS and LT models come equipped with a 3.5-liter V6 that produces 211 horsepower and 216 pound-feet of torque. A 3.9-liter V6 that puts out 230 hp and 235 lb-ft is standard on top-of-the-line LTZ versions only. Both engines are mated to a four-speed automatic transmission that drives the front wheels and both engines return respectable EPA fuel economy estimates. The 3.5-liter V6 is rated at 18 mpg city/29 mpg highway and 22 mpg combined, while the 3.9-liter engine numbers drop to 17 city/27 highway and 21 mpg combined.
Safety
The Impala's list of standard safety equipment includes antilock brakes, electronic stability control, side-impact airbags for front seat occupants and side curtain airbags that cover both rows. The OnStar emergency communications system is also standard.
In government crash testing, the Impala earned the highest possible five-star rating in frontal crash tests; for the side-impact tests, it emerged with five stars for front passengers and four stars for rear seat occupants. Tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety rated the Impala's performance as a second-best "Acceptable" in frontal crashes and a top rating of "Good" in side impacts.
Driving
When it comes to driving the 2010 Chevrolet Impala, the "competent but uninspiring" trend continues. Now that the sportier SS model is history, we're left with two available powertrains that produce acceleration that can best be described as adequate. While both engines are fine for casual motoring, they begin to feel rather anemic when driven back-to-back with the significantly more robust V6s under the hoods of the Impala's competitors.
The Impala's suspension is tuned to emphasize comfort, and it delivers an exceptionally smooth ride. Naturally there's a price to be paid for this cushiness, namely relatively lackluster handling that encourages a slow-but-steady approach to winding roads.
Interior
The interior of the 2010 Chevrolet Impala is a microcosm of all that's right and wrong with this full-size sedan. From a design standpoint, the Impala's interior gets points for overall quietness and the straightforward layout and operation of its gauges and audio/climate controls. That said, its uninspired styling and the use of low-grade materials on some trim levels makes the cabin feel a bit utilitarian.
Viewed from a strictly practical perspective, though, it's hard to argue with the Impala's cabin. There's seating for up to six passengers -- something that's increasingly rare in modern sedans -- with the 40/20/40-split front bench that's offered as an option on LS/LT models. Hip- and shoulder room is good all around, though competitive models offer a bit more legroom.
The spacious trunk will swallow more than 18 cubic feet of cargo which, while not class-leading, is still fairly impressive. The fold-flat rear seatbacks and large trunk pass-through (an option on LS/LT models and standard on LTZ) make it possible to carry longer items with the trunk lid closed.
2010 Chevrolet Impala models
For 2010, the Chevy Impala is offered in three basic trim levels including the LS base model, midrange LT and top-of-the-line LTZ. Entry-level LS models come standard with 16-inch steel wheels, dual-zone air-conditioning, front bucket seats with a six-way power driver seat, full power accessories, a tilt steering wheel, OnStar and a six-speaker CD audio system (with satellite radio and an auxiliary audio input jack). Stepping up to the LT gets you 16-inch alloy wheels, remote engine start, a compass and outside temperature display.
Spring for the top-of-the-line LTZ and you get 18-inch alloy wheels, a slightly firmer suspension, heated outside mirrors and a rear spoiler. Interior goodies include leather upholstery, heated front seats, a power passenger seat, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, Bluetooth and a premium Bose eight-speaker audio system.
The Impala's option packages make it possible to add many of the desirable standard features found on the LTZ to the less expensive LT. The LS and LT can also be ordered with a front bench seat, while the LT and LTZ trims can be had with an optional sunroof.
Reliability Ratings by RepairPal
4 out of 5 stars4/5Above Average
#3 out of 13 among Fullsize Cars
RepairPal Reliability Ratings are based on the actual cost, frequency, and severity of unscheduled repairs and maintenance on make/model data for select 2008-2022 vehicles. The reliability of a specific vehicle may vary depending on its maintenance and driving history, model year, trim, and features.
Cost
The average total annual cost for unscheduled repairs and maintenance across all model years of the Chevrolet Impala from 2008-2022.$488/yr
vs. $474/yr
for Average Fullsize Car
for Average Fullsize Car
Frequency
The average number of times this model is brought into the shop for unscheduled repairs and maintenance in a single year. RepairPal calculates this metric by tracking millions of unique vehicles over multiple years to determine an average number of visits per year (omitting small routine visits, e.g., oil changes).0.77x/yr
vs. 0.97x/yr
for Average Fullsize Car
for Average Fullsize Car
Severity
The probability that a repair will be a major issue, meaning the repair costs 3x the average annual repair cost for all models. This threshold will be higher for vehicles that have higher labor rates and parts costs (such as a premium brand).12.4%
vs. 13.4%
for Average Fullsize Car
for Average Fullsize Car
powered by RepairPal Based on RepairPal reliability data as of 8/23/2023. Ratings are provided by RepairPal and Edmunds is not responsible for their accuracy.
Consumer reviews
Read what other owners think about the Used 2010 Chevrolet Impala.
5 star(33%)
4 star(27%)
3 star(18%)
2 star(12%)
1 star(10%)
51 reviews
Trending topics in reviews
Most helpful consumer reviews
3.88 out of 5 stars
V-6 for the price of a 4.
Frank, 10/04/2010
2010 Chevrolet Impala LS 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
2nd Impala (had a 2007) and it is very good, improved brake rotors, lots of standard stuff (ABS, Traction Control, a great utility car since it has power for the Mountains ( 4's are a pain in CO). Ride is quiet, sound is OK, price was terrific.
5 out of 5 stars
235,000 miles still going strong
Jay, 11/23/2017
2010 Chevrolet Impala LT 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
I drive a lot 35,000 miles a year, bought car with 10,000 miles, has been trouble free with minor repairs, and good maintenance checks. If you need a cruiser, with lots of comfortable driving, and easy on the wallet, this car is for you. I've been impressed with how easy this car drives on highway, really just sort of drives itself. Certainly not a sports car, buy I don't like to fight … my car on long drives. I have over 235,000 miles on my car, guessing I'll end up around 300,000 in a couple of years. Still looks great, drives exactly the same, and expect more minor repairs and maintenance. I had transmission fluid changed once for maintenance, need another soon, that is it for now. Brakes are good, but car really lets loose going down hill, so they can wear on really steep mountain roads. Overall, great, I'm looking to get another, maybe a 2013, last year of this model.
4.13 out of 5 stars
best vehicle ive ever owned
andrew97, 06/14/2013
2010 Chevrolet Impala LT 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
Test drove it 2 plus years ago loved it then and as it sits in my driveway now I still love it. I purchased a '10 Impala LT only 1 yr old with 15,000 miles. It now has well over 43,000 and the only thing it's needed was a battery and the air recirculation valve for emissions. (both replaced under war) It rides great, for an American V6 the mpg is not bad at all I get 25 plus on the … highway and right around 19 in town. interior is comfy any problems are my fault. only issue I'm having right now is the pass front window motor is slow. with proper maintenance and driving less like and idiot and more like a responsible driver and these cars should last a very long time.
4 out of 5 stars
Owner since 2011 200k miles so far
Gary45fuentes, 04/17/2016
2010 Chevrolet Impala LS 4dr Sedan (3.5L 6cyl 4A)
Car engine is strong feels brand new. Only problem I have is the transmission went out at 146k miles. I now put 200k miles since then and transmission is starting to slip again. I paid $1,375.00 for rebuild. Looks like I'm going to have to dish out another 1375 soon 😑
2010 Impala Highlights
LS
Base MSRP Excludes Destination Fee | $24,290 |
---|---|
Engine Type | Flex-fuel (ffv) |
Combined MPG | 22 MPG |
Cost to Drive | $198/month |
Seating | 5 seats |
Cargo Capacity All Seats In Place | 18.6 cu.ft. |
Drivetrain | front wheel drive |
Warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Safety
Key safety features on the Impala include:
- Alarm
- Tire Pressure Warning
- Stability Control
- Post-collision safety system
NHTSA Overall Rating
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration offers independent analysis.
- Frontal Barrier Crash RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger5 / 5
- Side Crash RatingOverallNot Rated
- Side Barrier RatingOverallNot RatedDriver5 / 5Passenger4 / 5
- Combined Side Barrier & Pole RatingsFront SeatNot RatedBack SeatNot Rated
- RolloverRollover4 / 5Dynamic Test ResultNo TipRisk Of RolloverNot Rated
IIHS Rating
The Insurance Institute of Highway Safety uses extensive crash tests to determine car safety.
- Small Overlap Front Driver-Side TestNot Tested
- Small Overlap Front Passenger-Side TestNot Tested
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – OriginalAcceptable
- Moderate Overlap Front Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Side Impact Test – OriginalGood
- Side Impact Test – UpdatedNot Tested
- Roof Strength TestNot Tested
- Rear Crash Protection / Head RestraintMarginal
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